Q & A
Electric Guitar Questions & Answers
Question
I recently began to play the electric guitar but I don't know if I should buy a solidbody or a hollowbody guitar. Which do you think is better for a beginner? - Adreana
Answer
It really depends on what type of tone you want. Hollowbodies are typically used for jazz and rockabilly, but can be used for other styles. They have a "warmer", more acoustic tone than solidbodies. The drawback is, they are prone to feedback at louder volumes. Solidbodies have brighter tones (especially Strats or Teles) and feedback is usually not a problem. They are a little more versatile, tone-wise.
There are also semi-hollowbody guitars. They are usually hollow with a block of wood down the center of the body. They give you a more "hollowbody" tone but are less prone to feedback. None of these types is "better", it is a matter of what sound (and looks, and feel) you like. Try all three types through different amps and effects, if possible, and see which guitar you like best. That's the "better" guitar for you.
That said , if I had to choose, I would say a solidbody is probably best for beginners who like popular music styles (rock, pop, metal, etc.)
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